Medicare is a federally-run health insurance program which becomes available to individuals 65 and older or those with qualifying disabilities. While millions of people depend on this program to help cover medical costs, determining which version best suits your needs isn’t always simple. There are two main options: Original (Part A and B), or the Medicare Advantage Plan (also known as Part C). Discover whether the latter could be the right choice for you with the helpful information below.

A Guide to the Medicare Advantage Plan

How Does the Program Work?

Roughly one-third of all beneficiaries are enrolled in this alternative program, which is administered by approved private insurance companies rather than the federal government. In the advantage plan, the insurer receives a fixed amount from Medicare on your behalf which is then used to cover your health care costs.

Who’s a Good Candidate for It?

Anyone who may need additional benefits outside of those offered by Part A and B could benefit from switching to the Advantage Plan. This could include drug, dental, or vision coverage. Additionally, they have a maximum out-of-pocket (MOOP) cap, which will prevent you from paying for services that extend beyond a certain set amount each calendar year. However, you are usually limited to a specific list of doctors, hospitals, and health providers; to go elsewhere would require paying extra.

What Are Some Things to Consider?

While Advantage Plans do provide a greater scope of coverage, the specifics are variable depending on the region where you live. Other aspects are also subject to change from year to year. However, if you do opt for Part C and end up changing your mind, the de-enrollment period runs from January 1st through February 14th.

If you’re interested in exploring your Advantage Plan options in detail with a trusted and knowledgeable source, turn to Mary Marshall Medicare – Independent Broker in Lakewood, CO. She knows that Medicare can be confusing and works with her clients to ensure they understand the choices available to them, as well as guiding them to fill the gaps in their coverage. Contact her office by calling (303) 241-6665 or visit her website to learn more.